Adapting to Innovation with George Mundassery

Adapting to Innovation with George Mundassery

Author: PM Power Consulting October 10, 2025 Duration: 56:05

In this episode, Shiv is in conversation with George Mundassery, former SVP and Global head, AI and Automation with Tech Mahindra.


George shares his extensive journey in the IT industry, starting from his early days with Tatas in power systems to his role in automation and AI implementation. George recounts his experiences working with various technologies, including mainframes, real-time systems, Fortran 77, C, and C++, and later transitioning to commercial applications and enterprise solutions with Tuxedo and WebLogic. He also discusses the challenges and successes in delivering large-scale applications, the importance of data management, and the critical role of customer engagement and team collaboration. Additionally, George offers valuable advice for aspiring IT professionals and those navigating mid-career challenges, emphasizing continuous learning, teamwork, and adapting to change.


00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:10 Curiosity About Architects

00:29 George's Origin Story

01:12 Early Career in Power Systems

02:44 Transition to Commercial Applications

03:38 Exciting Journey with Middleware

05:23 Experience with HCL and Startups

07:13 Setting Up Automation and AI Units

10:51 Challenges in Data Management

15:49 Role as a CTO and Technology Adoption

18:43 Importance of Non-Functional Aspects

22:29 Handling Technical Risks in Projects

28:05 Building a Strong Team from Scratch

30:17 Balancing Technology, Customers, and Overheads

33:22 Challenges and Successes in Automation and AI

37:56 The Impact of Generative AI on Software Engineering

46:29 Advice for IT Professionals at Different Career Stages

53:17 Staying Grounded in a Fast-Paced Industry

56:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-mundassery-2117533/


George Mundassery is a seasoned IT leader with 40 years of global service delivery experience, recognized for his pioneering contributions in Intelligent automation and AI. He has served as Global Head of Automation and AI and held senior roles at major firms like Tech Mahindra representing the face of AI and automation initiatives. Throughout his career, he had been focused on building high-performing teams and establishing competencies to deliver value and outcome to global customers through Business and IT transformation programs.  George is acknowledged as a respected thought leader and member in leading organizations and think tanks, having shaped robust AI and Automation ecosystems and mentored cross-functional international teams.




Behind every line of code, there's a person with a story. Software People Stories, from PM Power Consulting, moves beyond abstract theory and polished case studies to explore the real, human experience of building technology. This isn't about hypotheticals; it's a collection of candid conversations with the practitioners themselves-developers, designers, product managers, and architects-who share firsthand accounts from the trenches. They talk about the paths that led to success and, just as importantly, the unexpected detours and failures that provided the most valuable lessons. Each episode delves into the nuanced journey of discovering what users need, designing elegant systems, navigating complex development, and ultimately delivering solutions that matter. By focusing on these personal narratives, the podcast reveals the core of software creation: a blend of technical skill, creative problem-solving, and team dynamics. Listeners gain practical wisdom and relatable perspectives on the challenges and triumphs inherent in the tech industry. Tune in for an honest look at the craft, where the stories of people are just as crucial as the software they build. You'll find this podcast a refreshing source of insight for anyone involved in or curious about the technology and business landscapes, offering career lessons learned the hard way.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Software People Stories
Podcast Episodes
From code to community with Sundar Rajan [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:34
I am in conversation with Sundar Rajan, a serial entrepreneur, currently the founder of OneMyle, a platform that seeks to address the needs of hyperlocal digital marketing in neighborhoods. He was earlier the co-founder…
Conversation with a Cloud Computing Pioneer, David Young [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:12
My guest today is David Young,Founder at Federated Computer. He has been a pioneer in cloud computing even before the term was invented. In fact, he and his team helped invent the term.In this conversation we could recal…
Adaptability, Empathy, and Breaking Comfort Zones with Veena Rao [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:45
Today, as part of the women’s special series in March, 2025, my guest is Veena Rao, SVP & Global Head, Corporate Lending at Finastra with over 25 years’ of experience in financial services and banking technology.In this…
Journey in Innovation & Leadership with Ponni Krishnamoorthy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:32
Today, as part of the women’s special series in March, 2025, Gayatri Kalyanaraman is in conversation with Ponni Krishnamoorthy, Director and Global head of Telco cloud in Nokia talks about breaking societal expectations…
Learn, Unlearn and Re-Learn with Bindhu Unny [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:37
Bindhu Unny is a leadership coach, podcast host and Social Entrepreneur, who straddles various mediums giving all her work a unique stamp of inherent creativity. She has 20 years of global experience working for corporat…
Startup Struggles to Global Leadership with Vidya Kabra [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:19
Our regular and long time listeners know that we dedicate the month of March every year for our special women guests.Welcome to the first special episode for March, 2025.In this episode, I am in conversation with Vidya K…
Full Stack leadership with Paramu Kurumathur [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:46
Sivaguru is in conversation with the serial author and colleague at PM Power, Paramu Kurumathur.They talk aboutThe trigger for the upcoming book is related to leadership.How this book builds on previous books but focuses…
Live a life that you are excited about with Rachana Shenoy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:16
I am continuing this conversation with Rachana Shenoy, Engineering Leader HPE talks about balancing career growth, avid speaker and continuous learnerIn this part of the conversation, Rachana shares her stress and delive…